Tip #1) Have patience & embrace the chaos. Let's be honest, children and even spouses can be uncooperative at times, and life can be hectic. As a mother of three, I can relate and know how important it is to remain patient and ensure that your family is comfortable to capture those precious moments. If your kids are feeling down or fussy, try asking their mom, dad, or guardian to hold and cuddle them for a while to help them relax. Alternatively, if they are bursting with energy and running around, go with the flow and let them run around as you capture their liveliness and spirit. Remember, when it comes to family photography, embracing whatever gets thrown your way is key!


© Heather Colleen Photography
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Tip #2) Keep the session fun for both parents and kids. During my photography sessions, I always provide prompts such as whispering something silly to your sister or giving mom a great big bear hug. Don’t be afraid to incorporate peekaboo and ridiculous noises. I’ve even played red light green light a few times! By keeping the session whimsical and fun, you can capture those genuine moments and real smiles.


© Heather Colleen Photography
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Tip #3) Capture the in between Moments. As a photographer, I'm always ready with my camera – it never stops clicking. Even during the lulls between poses, there's always something to capture. From a mom fixing her daughter's hair, to a dad calming a crying baby, I'm there to document it all. These candid snapshots often end up being the favorites – moments of genuine emotion and connection that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.


© Heather Colleen Photography
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Tip #4) Let families express and be themselves. Before our session, I will send out a questionnaire to help me get to know each family member and their interests better. During the shoot, I like to chat with the kids and bring up their favorite characters like Spider-Man, for example. This helps them become more comfortable around me and encourages them to be themselves. I also offer posing suggestions, but I always leave room for individual expression. If a certain pose doesn't feel right for them, I let them move and position themselves in a way that feels more natural. This approach delivers more authentic and relaxed images.


© Heather Colleen Photography
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Tip #5) My go to lens. When it comes to family photoshoots, my favorite lens is hands down the Tamron 24-70mm G2. Its versatility is unmatched, and I have all of my favorite focal lengths in one lens. Not only can I go wide and capture the whole family in frame, even amidst the chaos, but I can also zoom in for stunning portraits and capture the little details with precision.


© Heather Colleen Photography
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